Preds' Tootoo gets two-year extension

Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Jordin Tootoo to a two-year, $1.95 million contract extension.

In just 41 games in 2007-08, Tootoo has already attained career highs in goals (7) and points (13) in addition to tying a career best in assists.

“Since we drafted Jordin in 2001, we have seen him blossom into a complete player, as evidenced by his gradual increase in production since breaking into the NHL,” Poile said. “Jordin is a physical player that can not only get under opponents’ skin and draw penalties, but has proven he can score at this level as well. We are excited about watching his continued development over the next two seasons.”

Tootoo, 24 (2/2/83), has played 210 career games, all with Nashville, registering 40 points (18g-22a) and 365 penalty minutes. He made his NHL debut on Oct. 9, 2003 vs. Anaheim, becoming the first player of Inuit decent to play in the National Hockey League. In his rookie season in 2003-04, he scored four goals and registered eight points in 70 games to help the Predators to their first playoff appearance in franchise history.